Market Overview
The Global Wheat Protein Market size is anticipated to be valued at
USD 7.3 billion in 2024 and is further predicted to reach
USD 10.7 billion by 2033, at a CAGR of 4.4 %.
Wheat proteins are extracted from wheat grains, which normally contain gluten, albumins, globulins, and gliadins. The content of gluten protein is higher in wheat which gives elasticity to baking dough, whereas Gliadin contributes to its extensibility which allows it to stretch without baking, and glutenin provides strength and structure to dough. These properties of protein play a vital role in baking by allowing the dough to entrap air and produce light and fluffy breads. These are used in many food processing industries as additives to improve the texture, moisture retention, & nutritional profile of processed foods.
Moreover, wheat protein as an ingredient is widely used to create vegetarian and vegan meat substitutes, replicating the texture of meat and also boosting protein content. The wheat protein market is involved in the production and manufacturing of different types of protein. These proteins are incredibly popular as an ingredient in food and beverage items, like baked goods, dietary supplements, and vegetarian meat alternatives. The wheat protein market is growing due to health consciousness among consumers, increasing demand for plant-based protein sources, and the broader application of wheat protein in food production processes. The market is going to expand in the future due to the rising demand of consumers searching for healthier dietary choices.
Key Takeaways
- Market size: The global wheat protein market is projected to grow by 3.1 billion, at a CAGR of 4.4 % during the forecasted period of 2025 to 2033.
- Market Definition: Wheat protein is a form of protein which are extracted from wheat grains and contains gluten, gliadins, globulins, and albumins.
- Product Segment Analysis: The wheat gluten segment is projected to be the dominant force in the food coating market, capturing the largest revenue share of 47.2% in 2024.
- Concentration Analysis: 75% protein is expected to witness significant growth based on concentration with the highest revenue share of 45.7% throughout the forecast period.
- Form Segment Analysis: In terms of forms, the dry segment is expected to take the lead with the highest market share in the global wheat protein market by the end of 2024.
- Application Analysis: Bakery & Confectionary products are forecasted to hold the largest market share of 45.8 % and dominate the wheat protein market in 2024.
- Regional Analysis: North America is anticipated to dominate the wheat protein market, capturing a revenue share of 34.1 % in 2024.
Use Cases
- Nutritional Supplements: Isolated or concentrated wheat proteins are used in supplements and protein powders which offer a great source of plant-based protein to sportsmen, athletes, and consumers searching for protein-rich dietary additions.
- Pharmaceuticals: Wheat proteins are used in the medical field for the formulation and delivery of drugs, where they help in binding the ingredients of tablets which makes them intact.
- Animal Feed: Wheat protein that is rich in gluten is used as an add-on in the formulation of animals to improve the nutritional quality of poultry and livestock as it contains a high source of amino acid which is important for the overall growth and development of animals.
- Cosmetic: Hydrolyzed wheat protein is used in hair care products like shampoos, conditioners, and treatments due to its ability to condition hair, which helps to repair damaged hair health.
Market Dynamic
Drivers
The wheat protein market is growing due to the increasing popularity of plant-based diets and the expanding vegan demographic. These proteins primarily include gluten which is a versatile food content in the production of many food items which leads to higher demand from the bakery and food industry. The increasing vegan movement, the surge in the adoption of wheat protein as a meat and dairy alternative, and the growing use as a dietary supplement are further driving the growth of the wheat protein market. In addition, the rising requirement for wheat protein in pet food, and animal feed is boosting the market growth. Further, the development of high-yielding varieties of protein due to technological advancement in food technology is anticipated to drive market growth.
Restrains
High costs associated with the production of wheat protein which leads to high consumer prices, restrict the growth of the wheat protein market. Use of these proteins is limited in certain products or markets due to their property of being allergens, affecting the demand of market growth. Whey proteins and gluten-free products are ready to replace the wheat protein due to health benefits, which obstruct the growth of this market.
Opportunities
Rising demand for different functional foods like protein bars, shakes, fortified snacks, and meal substitutes including wheat protein provides a great opportunity for the growth of this market. These proteins provide different qualities like texture improvement, moisture retention, and emulsification which provides a great opportunity in the market.
Research Scope and Analysis
By Product
Wheat gluten is expected to dominate the global wheat protein market based on product with the largest revenue share of 47.2% in 2024. Gluten is demanded in bakery items and as a meat substitute in vegetarian and vegan products due to its qualities like texturing, viscoelasticity, foaming, binding, and emulsification. Due to glutens functional benefit of wheat proteins are used in various food industries as they are continuously developing and innovating new plant-based products according to the changing preferences of consumers. Following wheat gluten, Protein isolate is expected to show significant growth due to its characteristic of being a high-quality protein with essential amino acids, which is demanded by fitness enthusiasts, athletes, and health-conscious consumers looking to support muscle growth and maintenance. In addition, these are expanding as a protein-rich dietary supplement, particularly in the sports sector. Hydrolyzed wheat protein is predicted to grow due to the advancements in the personal care and cosmetics industry, and increasing demand for plant-based ingredients in dietary supplements.
By Concentration
The wheat protein market is segmented into three categories based on
concentration 75% protein, 80% protein, & 95% protein. The 75% protein segment is expected to lead the wheat protein market based on concentration with
the highest market value of 45.7% in 2024 as it contains a higher content of diluted protein which is primarily used in dietary supplements. This concentration offers a balance between purity and cost-efficiency which makes it a convenient option for a wide range of applications. This amount of concentration is beneficial to manufacturers who are looking to improve the nutritional profile of products without significantly increasing the costs of production. This concentration is compatible with different formulations required by food products which makes it suitable across different food industries.
Meanwhile, 80% protein-concentrated wheat provides a high purity level which makes it preferred for several applications where maximum content of protein is demanded. These are mostly used in sports nutrition and dietary supplements which help to provide high-protein products for muscle building and overall health. Moreover, 95% of wheat protein are purest form of wheat protein which is typically used for pharmaceutical or scientific applications as highly concentrated protein is in demand in these sectors for R&D purposes.
By Form
The dry form is anticipated to dominate the wheat protein market in the form segment with the highest revenue share in 2024, due to its better storage capacity, easy handling, and better stability compared to liquid. These properties of dry form make it convenient for distributors, manufacturers, and retailers, which leads to low logistical costs and improved shelf stability. In addition, its longer shelf life contributes to reducing the possibilities of spoilage & waste which is of great importance in the food industry which favors high-quality of food products. Dry forms provide a broad versatility in the formulation of products and applications, which contributes to the growth of dry forms in this market.
These forms are easily included with diverse food products like cereals, meat alternatives, baked goods, snacks, and beverages, to improve nutritional content, and enhance texture, and structure. Manufacturers are investing in innovative solutions to meet consumer demands for plant-based and gluten-free options without compromising on taste or functionality.
These forms are further growing due to their convenience, stability, and adaptability which makes them suitable for different purposes in the wheat protein market. Liquid forms are experiencing notable growth in the market due to their ability to be included in food and beverage formulations. These liquid forms are preferred ingredients in making beverages, sauces, and dressings due to the growing trend of plant-based and natural products. Also, the solubility of liquid form is another great property to makes it effortless to include into liquid products smoothly.
By Application
Bakery & Confectionary is predicted to lead the wheat protein market with the largest revenue share of 45.8% in 2024. The use of wheat protein is increasing in bakery applications due to its moisture retention, improved water absorption, and softer end products. Further, high consumption of packed food like cupcakes, cookies, and biscuits is driving the demand for the product due to changing lifestyles. This segment is projected to expand further due to the manufacturing of cakes, rolls, pastries, bread, & other bakery goods, to fulfill the demand of consumers. In addition, wheat protein is used as a functional ingredient in confectionery products, to improve texture, mouthfeel, & shelf life. Bakeries use these protein ingredients due to the rising consumer demand for healthier and plant-based food options to align with current market trends and preferences.
The dairy segment is forecasted to grow due to the presence of lactose-intolerant consumers as it efficiently substitutes lactose in fermented dairy products. This segment is projected to boost the growth of the wheat protein market as it is commonly used in vegetable-based beverages and desserts as a cost-effective milk alternative aimed to provide drinks to lactose-intolerant consumers. Moreover, these proteins are low in calories but rich in glutamine which helps in cardiovascular health & cholesterol management, which contributes to the growth of the personal care segment.
The Global Wheat Protein Market Report is segmented based on the following:
By Form
By Product
- Wheat Gluten
- Wheat Protein Isolate
- Textured Wheat Protein
- Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein
- Others
By Concentration
- 75% protein
- 80% protein
- 95% protein
By Application
- Bakery & Confectionery
- Animal Feed
- Dairy
- Personal Care
- Sports & Nutrition
- Others
Regional Analysis
North America is predicted to dominate the global wheat protein market with the largest
revenue share of 34.1% in 2024, due to rising awareness about the health benefits of these proteins, established food processing industry, high wheat production, and growing preference for nutritional products in this region. A vast vegetarian population along with increasing consumption of bakery products and meat alternatives in this region contributes to the demand for wheat protein. The wheat market is expanding particularly in America due to increasing interest in plant-based and sustainable diets among consumers as they are becoming vegetarian and flexitarian lifestyles due to its versatility and nutritional offerings.
Following North America, Asia-Pacific is the second largest region for the wheat protein market due to the growing vegan population and rising awareness about eating habits. South Asian regions particularly China and, India are growing significantly due to lower manufacturing costs, and high industrial growth in the healthcare and cosmetics sectors which leads to an increase in the demand of this market.
By Region
North America
Europe
- Germany
- The U.K.
- France
- Italy
- Russia
- Spain
- Benelux
- Nordic
- Rest of Europe
Asia-Pacific
- China
- Japan
- South Korea
- India
- ANZ
- ASEAN
- Rest of Asia-Pacific
Latin America
- Brazil
- Mexico
- Argentina
- Colombia
- Rest of Latin America
Middle East & Africa
- Saudi Arabia
- UAE
- South Africa
- Israel
- Egypt
- Rest of MEA
Competitive Landscape
Key market players operating in the global wheat protein market are focusing on the introduction of new products, the development of new partnerships, and the expansion of manufacturing facilities for the production of wheat to increase the company's revenue and market share. Companies are actively expanding their product portfolios to gain a competitive advantage, particularly in fast-growing regions such as Asia Pacific.
Archer Daniels Midland is a prominent wheat protein player that offers a vast range of products including hydrolyzed wheat protein, vital wheat gluten, and wheat protein isolates. These initiatives are improving the product adoption rates among global consumers. The wheat protein market is highly fragmented, with prominent firms playing a significant role. Key participants include AB Amilina, Agridient, MGP Ingredients, and Company. This market is shaped by continuous research and development initiatives by key players, changing consumer preferences, and global food industry trends.
Some of the prominent players in the global wheat protein market are:
- Archer Daniels Midland Company (ADM)
- Agridient
- MGP Ingredients
- AB Amilina
- Cargill Inc
- Manildra Group
- Crespel & Deiters GmbH and Co. KG
- Kroener Staerke
- Crop Energies AG
- Roquette
- Other
Recent Development
- In January 2024, according to the ACS Biomaterials Science & Engineering report, non-allergenic wheat protein glutenin was able to cultivate striated muscle layers and flat fat layers, potentially enabling the creation of textures resembling meat.
- In January 2023, Amber Wave started operation in North America's largest wheat protein facility after receiving investment from Summit Agricultural Group. The company is producing AmberPro Vital Wheat Gluten, serving as a local gluten source for industries like commercial bakeries, food ingredient plants, alternative meat producers, pet food processors, and specialty feed companies.
- In November 2023, Amber Wave, a leading U.S. provider of high-quality wheat protein, announced the opening of North America's largest wheat protein ingredients facility. This milestone was made possible by significant investment from Summit Agricultural Group, a respected player in agribusiness and investment management.
- In September 2023, British alternative meat brand Squeaky Bean expanded its product range with the launch of two new offerings: the Teriyaki Duck Protein Pot and the Beef Ragu Protein Pot. These convenient meals cater to diverse tastes, demonstrating the brand's commitment to offering innovative plant-based options.
- In January 2022, Cargill introduced a new line of wheat protein products tailored for meat alternative applications.
Report Details
| Report Characteristics |
| Market Size (2024) |
USD 7.3 Bn |
| Forecast Value (2033) |
USD 10.7 Bn |
| CAGR (2024-2033) |
4.4 % |
| Historical Data |
2018 – 2023 |
| Forecast Data |
2024 – 2033 |
| Base Year |
2023 |
| Estimate Year |
2024 |
| Report Coverage |
Market Revenue Estimation, Market Dynamics, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors and etc. |
| Segments Covered |
By Product (Wheat Gluten, Wheat Protein Isolate, Textured Wheat Protein, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, and Others), By Concentration (75% concentration, 80% concentration, and 95% concentration), By Form (Dry, and Liquid), By Application (Bakery & Confectionery, Animal Feed, Dairy, Personal Care, Sports & Nutrition, and Others) |
| Regional Coverage |
North America – The US and Canada; Europe – Germany, The UK, France, Russia, Spain, Italy, Benelux, Nordic, & Rest of Europe; Asia- Pacific– China, Japan, South Korea, India, ANZ, ASEAN, Rest of APAC; Latin America – Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Colombia, Rest of Latin America; Middle East & Africa – Saudi Arabia, UAE, South Africa, Turkey, Egypt, Israel, & Rest of MEA
|
| Prominent Players |
Archer Daniels Midland (ADM), Agridient, MGP Ingredients, AB Amilina, Cargill Inc., Manildra Group, Crespel & Deiters GmbH and Co. KG, Crop Energies AG, Kroener Staerke, Roquette, and Other Key Players |
| Purchase Options |
We have three licenses to opt for: Single User License (Limited to 1 user), Multi-User License (Up to 5 Users), and Corporate Use License (Unlimited User) along with free report customization equivalent to 0 analyst working days, 3 analysts working days and 5 analysts working days respectively. |
Frequently Asked Questions
The Global Wheat Protein Market size is estimated to have a value of USD 7.3 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 10.7 billion by the end of 2033.
North America is expected to be the largest market share for the Global Wheat Protein Market with a share of about 34.1 % in 2024.
Some of the major key players in the Global Wheat Protein Market are AB Amilina, Agridient, MGP Ingredients, and Company, and many others.
The market is growing at a CAGR of 4.4 percent over the forecasted period.